As Easter approaches, Gramado in Serra Gaúcha is experiencing a remarkable increase in chocolate production, boasting a 20% rise compared to the previous year. According to the local Chocolate Makers Association (Achoco), production has escalated from 700 tons in 2025 to approximately 840 tons in 2026. This surge underscores the town's status as the 'National Capital of Artisan Chocolate,' a title it received in 2020, largely due to its artisanal production methods and strong local employment rates.

The boom in chocolate production is attributed to the early timing of Easter this year, coming two weeks sooner than in previous years. This timing required local manufacturers to overlap their production of Easter chocolates with their Christmas lines. As noted by industrial manager Anderson Schuck Vidal, production ramped up as early as September 2025 to meet the growing demand. The statistics illustrate not only the town's commitment to quality pastry-making but also the strategic planning required to navigate seasonal shifts.

Wagner Souza, a marketing analyst working at one of the local factories, highlighted the challenges and efforts that go into maintaining high production levels during the hectic holiday seasons. With around 30 factories operating in the municipality and over 3,000 individuals employed either directly or indirectly in the chocolate trade, the economic implications are significant, fostering local growth while enhancing Gramado's reputation as a chocolate powerhouse in Brazil.